Last updated: January 18, 2025
Gansu, China, exhibits a diverse climate influenced by its varied topography, categorized by multiple Köppen-Geiger climate classes including Dwa, Cwa, Dwb, Dwc, Cwb, BWk, ET, and BSk. The region experiences a stark temperature range, with January temperatures plummeting to a frigid -40°C (-39°F), while July can soar to a scorching 43°C (109°F). With an average annual temperature of 8°C (46°F), Gansu's climate reveals both extreme cold and intense heat, reflecting the complex interplay of elevation and latitude that characterizes this fascinating area of China.
Gansu, China, experiences pronounced seasonal temperature variations, characterized by harsh winters and sweltering summers. January sees extreme cold, with minimum temperatures plunging to -40°C (-39°F), gradually warming to an average of -6°C (22°F). As spring approaches, temperatures steadily rise, with March averaging 4°C (40°F) and reaching a maximum of 27°C (81°F). By April and May, the climate shifts dramatically, showcasing mild averages and peaks of 32°C (90°F) and 38°C (101°F), respectively. The summer months of June and July bring warmth, with July reaching a scorching 43°C (109°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). However, as autumn sets in, temperatures begin to decline, with November and December registering chilling lows again, highlighting the region's significant temperature swings throughout the year.
Yacheng experiences a minimum temperature of -26°C (-14°F) in January and peaks at 32°C (90°F) in July, making it a place of significant temperature variation throughout the year. In contrast, Jiayuguan has its coldest month in December, with temperatures dropping to -23°C (-10°F), while July brings a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Lanzhou, on the other hand, records a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) in February and reaches a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in July. For more details, visit the monthly temperatures in Yacheng, Jiayuguan, and Lanzhou.
Precipitation in Gansu, China, exhibits clear seasonal trends, with the majority falling during the summer months. January starts the year with minimal rainfall at 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 4 days, gradually increasing through the winter. By March, conditions become wetter, with 32 mm (1.2 in) recorded, culminating in a significant rise to 79 mm (3.1 in) in May, as spring transitions into the summer season. The onset of June marks a notable shift, with precipitation escalating to 100 mm (3.9 in), peaking in July and August with 119 mm (4.7 in) and 137 mm (5.4 in), respectively.
As summer progresses, the frequency of rainy days peaks, with 15 days of precipitation in August, followed by a slight decrease in September, bringing 108 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days. The autumn months witness a decline in rainfall, dropping to 84 mm (3.3 in) in October and finishing the year with November's 25 mm (1.0 in) and December's return to 13 mm (0.5 in), each accumulating rainfall over fewer days. Overall, Gansu's climate demonstrates a distinct wet season dominated by summer thunderstorms, interspersed with drier winter months that shape the region's agricultural patterns and water availability.
In Gansu, China, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with a marked increase from the depths of winter into the vibrant summer months. January begins with 216 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 262 hours in February and 291 hours in March, reflecting the transition toward milder conditions. By late spring, especially in May, sunlight peaks at 317 hours, as days lengthen and warmth envelops the region. This upward trend continues into the summer, with July boasting the highest sunshine duration of 335 hours, followed closely by August at 312 hours, making these months ideal for outdoor activities and agricultural growth.
As the summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to decline, with September recording 250 hours, marking the onset of autumn. By October, the decrease continues with 231 hours, while November and December stabilize around 248 hours and 264 hours, respectively. Despite these reductions, the winter months still retain a fair amount of sunshine compared to other regions. Overall, Gansu's sunshine data reveals a robust seasonal rhythm: the region basks in abundant sunlight during the warmer months, fostering a vibrant ecosystem, while still benefiting from generous daylight hours throughout the winter.
In Gansu, China, the UV Index presents a striking seasonal variation, reflecting the region's intense sun exposure, particularly during the warmer months. Starting with a UV Index of 6 in January, categorized as high, the month allows for about 25 minutes of sun exposure before burns can occur. However, as spring unfolds, the index escalates rapidly, reaching 12 in March and peaking at an alarming 18 in both May and June, categorized as extreme and allowing only 10 minutes of burn time. This extreme UV Index during the late spring and early summer signifies a critical need for sun protection, as the risk of skin damage significantly increases.
As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, although still remaining high. In July, the index drops slightly to 16, and by August and September, it stabilizes at 15—still under the extreme category necessitating vigilant sun safety. October sees a further decrease to 11 with a continued high-risk classification. By November, the UV Index falls to 8, categorized as very high, before declining further to 5 in December, representing moderate exposure. This yearly trend illustrates the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors in Gansu, particularly during the peak summer months when UV radiation poses significant health risks.
UV Risk Categories
In Gansu, China, daylight duration follows a predictable seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's geographical positioning and changing seasons. The year begins with relatively short days, as January and February each offer 10 hours of daylight. However, with the arrival of spring, daylight hours gradually increase, reaching 11 hours in March. As the days lengthen, April sees a significant jump to 13 hours, and May further extends daylight to 14 hours, which remains consistent through June and July, the heart of summer. These long days invite outdoor activities and support the region's agricultural practices as crops benefit from the abundant sunlight.
As summer gives way to autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off, starting with 13 hours in August and dropping to 12 hours in September. The decrease continues into October with 11 hours, followed by a return to 10 hours in November. By December, daylight shrinks to its lowest at 9 hours, marking the shortest days of the year. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration underscores the stark seasonal contrasts that Gansu experiences, influencing daily life and cultural practices throughout the year.
Dazu, China experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) with an average of -10°C (14°F), while July sees highs of up to 25°C (78°F). Precipitation peaks in May and August, averaging around 125 mm (4.9 in) and 143 mm (5.6 in) respectively, with significant rainfall throughout the summer months. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts 326 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climatic information, visit Dazu climate.
Dongba, China experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures averaging -8°C (18°F) and dropping as low as -25°C (-12°F), while summers can be quite warm, peaking at an average of 26°C (80°F) in July. Precipitation is minimal, with the wettest month being July, receiving only 19 mm (0.7 in) of rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from May to July, with up to 363 hours of sun in July. For more detailed information, visit Dongba climate.
Dunhuang, China experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations, with January seeing lows of -20°C (-4°F) and highs reaching 11°C (52°F). Summer months, particularly July, can be scorching, with temperatures peaking at 42°C (108°F). Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, averaging between 0 mm to 9 mm, making it a predominantly arid region. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in summer, where it boasts up to 372 hours of sunlight in July. For more detailed information, visit Dunhuang climate.
Guangzhoulu, China experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), while summers reach highs of 39°C (102°F) in July. The region sees moderate precipitation, peaking in August at 45 mm (1.8 in), with relatively low rainfall during the winter months. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in summer, with July boasting 356 hours. For more details, visit Guangzhoulu climate.
Gulang, China experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F), rising to a pleasant 32°C (90°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in August at 100 mm (3.9 in), while the annual sunshine hours are highest during summer months, particularly in July with 358 hours. This significant variation influences both agriculture and daily life in Gulang. For more detailed information, visit Gulang climate.
Huazangsi, China experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter months are particularly harsh, with January averaging -10°C (14°F) and February showing slightly warmer temperatures, while July is the warmest month with an average of 16°C (60°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer, especially in August, reaching up to 116 mm (4.6 in), while sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in July when it enjoys 357 hours of sunlight. Overall, Huazangsi's climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers, making it a unique region. For more detailed information, visit Huazangsi climate.
Jiangxi, China, experiences a diverse climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -26°C (-15°F) in January, with average highs reaching about 8°C (46°F). Summers are warm and humid, with July and August temperatures averaging 21°C (70°F) to 20°C (69°F), and precipitation peaking at 129 mm (5.1 in) each month. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in May and July, with over 300 hours of sunlight during these months. For more detailed information, visit Jiangxi climate.
Jiayuguan, China, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to as low as -22°C (-8°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F), while July sees milder averages around 22°C (72°F) and highs up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is relatively low throughout the year, peaking in July at 29 mm (1.1 in), and sunshine is abundant, especially in summer with over 360 hours in July and August. This unique climate make Jiayuguan a distinct destination for visitors. For more details, visit Jiayuguan climate.
The climate in Jing'an, China, is characterized by a large seasonal temperature variation, with January experiencing the coldest temperatures reaching a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F). The summer months, particularly July and August, see maximum temperatures soar to 39°C (102°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. Precipitation is modest throughout the year, peaking in August with 40 mm (1.6 in) of rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July, which records 361 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jing'an climate.
Langmusi, China experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can dip to a chilling -29°C (-20°F), while average summer highs in July reach around 24°C (76°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, notably in August with 153 mm (6.0 in), contributing to the region's gradual thaw from the harsh winter. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with July boasting the most at 324 hours. For more detailed information, visit Langmusi climate.
Lanzhou, China experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -19°C (-2°F), while July sees highs of up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation varies, peaking in August with 125 mm (4.9 in), while the sun shines the most in July with 348 hours. This region enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, averaging around 311 hours in June and maintaining a sunny disposition throughout the warmer months. For more detailed information, visit Lanzhou climate.
Laojunmiao, China experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February witness frigid temperatures with averages around -11°C (12°F) and -8°C (17°F), while July and August bring much warmer conditions, averaging 17°C (62°F) and 15°C (60°F), respectively. Precipitation peaks during the summer months, with July receiving about 55 mm (2.2 in), contrasting with the drier winter months. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially from May to July, with July receiving the most at 368 hours. For detailed weather patterns, visit Laojunmiao climate.
Liangshan, China, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -20°C to 8°C, while July averages between 9°C and 34°C, making it the warmest month. Precipitation peaks in the summer, with July recording about 114 mm, contributing to the lush landscape. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in July, when sunlight reaches around 321 hours. For more detailed information, visit Liangshan climate.
Liujiaxia, China experiences a diverse climate, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -21°C (-5°F), while July sees highs reaching 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is highest in August, averaging 106 mm (4.2 in), with a generally dry winter. Sunshine hours peak in July with 350 hours, contributing to overall pleasant summer conditions. For more information, visit Liujiaxia climate.
Longshan, China, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures in January can plummet to a minimum of -20°C (-5°F), gradually rising to average highs of 34°C (93°F) in the peak summer months of July and August. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August, receiving up to 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain. Notably, sunlight is abundant, particularly in May, with an impressive 306 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Longshan climate.
The climate in Qingcheng, China, experiences significant seasonal variation, with winter months (January to March) seeing frigid temperatures, averaging around -3°C (26°F) in January. Spring transitions to milder weather, peaking in May with average temperatures of 17°C (63°F) and increasing rainfall. The summer months (June to August) are warm and humid, featuring average highs around 32°C (90°F) and significant precipitation, particularly in July and August. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and diminished rainfall, culminating in December with an average of -3°C (28°F). For more detailed information, visit Qingcheng climate.
Qingyuan, China experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variation throughout the year. Winter months, particularly January and February, have severe lows of -28°C (-18°F) and average temperatures hovering around -7°C (19°F). Summers are warm, reaching highs of up to 32°C (89°F) in July and August, while precipitation peaks in August with 144 mm (5.7 in). This region enjoys ample sunshine, especially during summer, with July averaging 336 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Qingyuan climate.
Siheyuan, China experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) while July peaks at a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is minimal in winter, peaking in August with 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain. The area enjoys significant sunshine, especially in summer, with July boasting up to 340 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Siheyuan climate.
The climate in Suchuan, China, exhibits a significant range of temperatures throughout the year, with January temperatures dropping as low as -11°C (13°F) and reaching a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in July. The region experiences its highest rainfall from June to September, with precipitation peaking at 150 mm (5.9 in) in August. Sunshine hours also vary, with May boasting the most at 306 hours, while October sees a decrease to just 166 hours. Overall, Suchuan's climate is characterized by warm summers and cold winters, making it a diverse environmental region. For more information, visit Suchuan climate.
Suzhou experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with winter temperatures dropping as low as -20°C (-4°F) in January and peaking at 42°C (108°F) during the summer months, particularly in July. Precipitation is minimal, rarely exceeding 9 mm (0.3 in) in any month, while sunshine is abundant, especially from March to August, with May receiving up to 361 hours. The transitional seasons of spring and autumn see moderate temperatures, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. For more detailed information on the local climate, please visit Suzhou climate.
Taoyan, China experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -28°C (-18°F), while July sees highs of up to 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is highest in the summer months, peaking at 136 mm (5.4 in) in August, with lower amounts during winter. The area enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in May (322 hours) and July (335 hours), providing a bright contrast to the colder months. For more detailed information, visit Taoyan climate.
Tianchi, China experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January being the coldest month, recording minimums of -21°C (-5°F) and maximums of 11°C (53°F). The summer months of July and August peak at maximum temperatures of 36°C (97°F), accompanied by significant rainfall, especially in August with 153 mm (6.0 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, with 343 hours of sunlight. Precipitation increases from spring into summer, making the region lush and vibrant during those months. For more detailed insights, visit Tianchi climate.
Wulong, China experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter months, such as January and December, can see minimum temperatures drop to -14°C (7°F), while summers, particularly in July and August, see highs reaching 35°C (95°F). Precipitation increases during the summer, with July and August receiving the most rain at 102 mm (4.0 in) and 125 mm (4.9 in), respectively. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 329 hours, contributing to a vibrant environment. For more detailed information, visit Wulong climate.
Wushan, China experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters (January and February) are cold, with average temperatures ranging from -4°C (24°F) to -2°C (28°F) and minimums dropping as low as -24°C (-11°F). As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in summer (July and August) at averages around 21°C (70°F) to 20°C (68°F), with maximums reaching up to 35°C (94°F). The rainy season occurs in late spring and summer, with precipitation peaking in August at 123 mm (4.8 in). For more detailed information on weather patterns, visit Wushan climate.
Xiacheng, China experiences a wide temperature range throughout the year, with January's lows reaching -30°C (-21°F) and summer highs in July peaking at 27°C (82°F). Precipitation is heaviest in May and August, with monthly averages of 121 mm (4.8 in) and 174 mm (6.8 in), respectively, while sunshine hours are abundant during summer, topping at 333 hours in July. Winters are cold and relatively dry, resulting in average temperatures hovering around -10°C (14°F) in January. For more detailed information, visit Xiacheng climate.
The climate in Xihu, China, is characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -19°C to 13°C, while July can soar between 11°C and 36°C. Precipitation peaks in August at 125 mm, contributing to a humid summer climate. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in July with 348 hours, providing clear skies during the warmer months. For more detailed information, visit Xihu climate.
Xijiang, China, experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months seeing lows around -29°C (-20°F) in January and gradually warming to average highs of 28°C (82°F) in July. Precipitation peaks during the summer, particularly in July and August with over 124 mm (nearly 5 inches), while winter months remain relatively dry. Sunshine hours are abundant, with July offering the most at 330 hours, promoting a warm and sunny atmosphere in the peak of summer. For more information, visit Xijiang climate.
Yacheng, China experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January lows reaching -26°C (-14°F) and July highs peaking at 32°C (90°F). Precipitation varies seasonally, with the wettest months being July and August, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) and 132 mm (5.2 in), respectively. The region enjoys significant sunshine, especially in summer, with July averaging 327 hours of sunshine. For more detailed climate information, visit Yacheng climate.
The climate in Yuanyang, China, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January being the coldest month (average -6°C or 22°F) and July the warmest (average 20°C or 69°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in August, with approximately 128 mm (5.0 in), while winter sees significantly less rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in May and July, which receive up to 315 and 332 hours, respectively. For more detailed climate insights, visit Yuanyang climate.
Yulong, China experiences a harsh winter with January temperatures dropping as low as -27°C (-16°F) and maximums reaching only 8°C (46°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in July and August, where average highs reach around 20-32°C (68-89°F). Precipitation is most abundant during the summer months, especially in July and August, with rainfall measuring up to 171 mm (6.7 in). Sunlight hours are significant throughout the year, hitting a high of 323 hours in July, contributing to the overall climate variability. For more details, visit Yulong climate.
Yuntai, China experiences a temperate climate with notable seasonal variations. Winter temperatures drop to a minimum of -11°C in January, while summer highs can reach 35°C in July. Precipitation peaks during the summer months, especially July and August, with over 160 mm recorded, contributing to lush landscapes. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in July, providing an average of 328 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Yuntai climate.
Zhangye, China, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and hot summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -23°C to 14°C, while July can reach up to 39°C. Precipitation is minimal during the winter months, increasing notably in the summer, with August being the wettest month at 40 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July, which receives 361 hours. For more detailed information, visit Zhangye climate.
Zhongshan, China experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -20°C, while July sees highs of up to 34°C. Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly July and August, which receive the most rainfall at 114 mm and 133 mm respectively. The city enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, with May offering the most hours at 306. For a detailed overview, visit Zhongshan climate.
In conclusion, Gansu, China, presents a diverse and dynamic climate characterized by significant variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region experiences extreme seasonal fluctuations, from the harsh cold of winter with limited sunshine and higher UV exposure to the intense heat and long daylight hours of summer, culminating in elevated UV index conditions. These climatic factors not only shape the environment but also impact the daily lives of residents, agricultural activities, and outdoor pursuits. Understanding Gansu's intricate climate dynamics is essential for effective resource management, public health awareness, and fostering sustainable practices that can adapt to the changing environment, ensuring the resilience of both the ecosystem and the local communities.